“The highest forms of understanding we can achieve are laughter and human compassion.” — Richard Feynman
Charles Edward “CJ” Walton Jr., 44, of Richmond, Va. passed away on Wednesday, February 5, 2025. Born on July 3, 1980, he was the son of the late Charles E. Walton and Linda Walton. He is survived by his mother Linda Walton, his ex-wife Amy Robandt, his sister Tracey Williamson, his brother David Walton, and his ever-loyal puggle, Maggie.
CJ was a man of many talents and boundless curiosity. A farmer, baker, scientist, mechanic, and teacher, he moved through life with an insatiable drive to learn, create, and repair. He saw potential where others saw problems—whether in an engine that refused to turn over, a garden that needed tending, or a mind searching for direction. His intellect was matched by a deep concern for others, a love of debate, and a willingness to challenge assumptions, often leading to spirited discussions with those around him.
At the age of 19, CJ earned a B.S. in biochemistry from Bard College at Simon’s Rock. He sought meaning in work that connected him to land, food, and people, which led him to Gould Farm. There he became a work leader and supported guests on their own paths towards recovery and healing over many years. His love for baking led him to study at the Culinary Institute of America, where he refined his craft and deepened his understanding of artisan bread making. He brought that expertise to Gould Farm’s Harvest Barn, where he helped create a bakery program. For CJ, baking wasn’t just about flour and fermentation; it was a way of creating something tangible, nourishing, and shared for those around him. His colleagues and friends from Gould Farm remember him as a kind and compassionate work leader with a talent for identifying and fostering strength in others.
Beyond Gould Farm, CJ’s work and interests expanded in many directions. He became a certified auto mechanic, mastered the art of coffee roasting, and found a niche repairing restaurant equipment, particularly water-filtration systems. He approached each trade with the same intensity and depth that he brought to everything he did. His love of poetry, gardening, and cooking were constants, as were his tireless work ethic, strong opinions, and sharp wit. CJ had a gift for finding humor around him, often punctuating a sharp bit of wordplay or an inside joke with a deep, barrel-chested laugh, head thrown back in surprise, eyes twinkling.
Alongside his many gifts, CJ wrestled with moments of strength and setback, clarity and hardship. Even amid his struggles, he sought something bigger than himself: a way to make sense of the world, of suffering, and of the possibility of transformation and renewal. Through it all, he remained a person of deep generosity, always willing to help those around him.
CJ will be remembered for his independent mind, his care for and kindness towards others, and his generosity in sharing his knowledge and skills. Those who knew him carry his memory in the lessons he taught, the meals he prepared, and the countless repairs he made along the way.
Friends and family are welcome to gather on Friday, March 21, at 1 p.m., at the Monterey UCC Church, 449 Main Rd., Monterey, MA, for a memorial. Afterwards, a reception will be held at the Monterey Community Center, 468 Main Rd., Monterey, MA, from about 2 to 4 p.m., to spend some time together. People are encouraged to wear blue if they choose to. It was CJ’s favorite color.
If you feel inspired to make a donation in CJ’s name, he supported and cared deeply about the following organizations: Gould Farm, Partners in Health, Doctors Without Borders, and Rural Recovery/South County Recovery Center.
